Snow Removal Equipment Operator

Job Details: Job Location: Purgatory Resort - DURANGO, CO, Position Type: Seasonal, Salary Range: $17.00 - $25.00Hourly, Snow Removal Operator

General Purpose

Ensure guests and supply vehicles can reach the resort safely. Provide safe and accessible parking for guests.

This is a seasonal position from 11/15/26 to late April, 2026. Dates are subject to change based on the availability of the applicant and needs of the business. This role comes with a free season pass for you and your dependents. For a full list of benefits visit https://www.purgatory.ski/employee-benefits/

Hiring for our seasonal positions occurs on a rolling basis. This position will remain open until filled.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Operate Heavy Equipment

● Safely operate snow removal equipment such as loaders, skid steers, and plows.

● Use attachments like salt spreaders.

Snow and Ice Control

● Remove snow from roadways, parking lots.

● Spread de-icing materials (salt, sand, brine) to improve traction and prevent ice buildup.

Pre- and Post-Operation Inspections

● Conduct daily inspections of equipment before and after use.

● Check fluid levels, tire pressure, lights, brakes, and general mechanical condition.

Routine Maintenance

● Perform basic maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.

● Report major mechanical issues to supervisors or maintenance staff.

Follow Routes and Instructions

● Follow assigned routes, and job orders.

● Adapt to changing weather conditions and emergency response situations.

Documentation

● Complete daily logs, inspection reports, and incident reports as required.

● Record materials used.

Adhere to Safety Standards

● Follow all safety protocols, traffic laws, and company policies.

● Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and practice safe driving techniques.

Work in Extreme Conditions

● Work outdoors in harsh winter conditions (snow, ice, low visibility, freezing temperatures).

● Respond to emergency call-ins and work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Team Communication

● Maintain clear communication with dispatchers, supervisors, and team members.

● Report hazards, delays, or unusual conditions immediately.

Assist with Other Duties as Needed

● Participate in training and safety meetings.

Qualifications: Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

1. Knowledge of Snow Removal Equipment:

○ Understanding how to operate and maintain various heavy equipment: plows, loaders, skid steers, and salt spreaders

1. Basic Mechanical Knowledge:

○ Familiarity with engine systems, hydraulics, and basic troubleshooting.

○ Ability to perform routine maintenance (e.g., checking fluids, changing blades, etc.).

1. Weather and Road Condition Awareness:

○ Understanding how snow, ice, and temperature affect road surfaces and equipment performance.

1. Safety Regulations and Procedures:

○ Knowledge of occupational safety standards (e.g., OSHA), PPE requirements, and vehicle safety laws.

1. Traffic and Municipal Codes:

○ Awareness of local snow removal ordinances, right-of-way rules, and traffic regulations.

1. De-icing Materials and Application Methods:

○ Understanding when and how to use salt, brine, or sand effectively and responsibly.

Heavy Equipment Operation

● Skilled in maneuvering equipment in tight, slippery, or low-visibility conditions.

Vehicle Control

● Strong driving skills, especially in hazardous winter conditions.

Navigation and Route Management

● Ability to read and follow maps, routes, and GPS systems.

Problem-Solving

● Ability to assess situations on the spot and make quick, safe decisions during storms or breakdowns.

Record-Keeping

● Accurate completion of inspection checklists, work logs, and incident reports.

Communication

● Clear and professional communication with dispatchers, team members, and sometimes the public.

Time Management

● Ability to prioritize tasks efficiently during high-demand situations such as active snowstorms.

Work in Extreme Weather

● Ability to work outdoors in snow, ice, wind, and low temperatures for extended periods.

Adaptability

● Able to quickly respond to changing weather, equipment issues, and emergency call-outs.

Physical Stamina

● Capability to sit for long periods, lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs), and perform physically demanding tasks.

Attention to Detail

● Ability to notice missed areas, equipment issues, or safety hazards while operating machinery.

Team Collaboration

● Willingness to work with others in coordinated snow removal efforts.

Follow Instructions

● Ability to carry out verbal or written instructions accurately, including emergency protocols.

Education and Experience

● 1–3 years of experience operating heavy equipment (e.g., front-end loaders, skid steers, dump trucks).

● Experience operating in winter or low-visibility conditions (e.g., snowstorms, ice, nighttime operations).

● Experience with snow removal techniques, including plowing, hauling, and de-icing.

Preferred

● Prior work with municipal public works, DOT, or commercial snow contractors.

● Experience with GPS systems, route sheets, and communication with dispatch.

● Experience in basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.

Working Environment/Physical Activities

Outdoor Exposure

● Frequent and extended exposure to harsh winter conditions including snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures.

● Work performed during active snowstorms, low visibility, and slippery surfaces.

Irregular Hours

● Shift work, including overnights, early mornings, weekends, and holidays, depending on snowfall and emergency response needs.

● On-call availability may be required during winter months.

Noisy and Hazardous Conditions

● Exposure to loud machinery, vibrations, and diesel exhaust.

● Potential hazards include icy surfaces, moving traffic, low-visibility environments, and operating near pedestrians or structures.

Work Location

● parking lots, sidewalks, or private properties depending on the employer.

Frequent Sitting

● Long periods operating equipment (6–12 hours or more during snow events).

Repetitive Motion

● Use of hands and feet to operate controls, steering, and pedals.

Lifting and Carrying

● Occasionally required to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds, including chains, tools, or snow removal accessories.

Climbing and Bending

● Climb in and out of vehicles and equipment multiple times per shift.

● Bending, kneeling, or crouching when performing equipment maintenance or clearing blockages.

Visual and Auditory Requirements

● Must have good vision (corrected if necessary) for safe driving in poor visibility.

● Able to hear equipment sounds, radios, and verbal instructions, even in noisy environments.

Endurance and Alertness

● Ability to remain alert and focused for long shifts under potentially monotonous or high-stress conditions.

● Physically and mentally able to operate safely during extended emergency response.